Residential play worker jobs
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Service Manager to manage and lead our Bristol Men’s Crisis House, Avonmouth.
Imagine being part of an organisation whose common purpose is to help those who are severely impacted by mental illness. We believe that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity – and that’s why equity is one of our core values.
JOIN THE TEAM!
1 x Full-time post available – 35 hours per week
This is an exciting opportunity to lead and manage our Men’s Crisis House in Bristol. We believe in a person-centred approach and the involvement of individuals in all aspects of their support.
About the Bristol Men’s Crisis House
The Bristol Men’s Crisis House is a warm and supportive 10-bed home based at Bradford Lodge in Avonmouth. We’re here for men who have recently been through a mental health crisis—whether they’ve just left hospital or are finding it difficult to stay safe where they currently live. Our house offers a calm, safe environment where residents can take time to stabilise and focus on their wellbeing. We provide therapeutic support to help each person feel ready and confident to return home. Stays are usually up to 10 days, although men who are of no fixed abode (NFA) may stay a little longer if needed.
- We’re a non-CQC registered service.
- Our team is here day and night, 24/7, every day of the year.
- The service is run by Rethink Mental Illness, working closely with AWP, who handle all referrals through their Crisis Teams.
How you will make a difference:
Staffing, Leadership & Oversight
· I will ensure that staff have the correct guidance and support to fulfil their roles and will ensure that a monthly 24/7 rota ensures enough staffing capacity to deliver effective support.
Quality of Support & Environment
· I will ensure that a high standard of support is embedded within the service and will promote and support an inclusive environment.
· I will ensure that high quality support planning, risk management, outcomes measurements are in place for all residents in the service at all times.
Referrals & Risk Management
· I will review all referrals into the service and ensure these are appropriate for the service remit and that risks are manageable during the residents stay. I will ensure that all referral documentation is received.
Partnership & Multi-Agency Working
· I will work closely with AWP Crisis Teams and ensure highly effective working relationships are in place at a management and front line level to ensure the crisis house provides the right standard of support to residents using a multi-agency approach.
Activities & Resident Engagement
· I will ensure activities offered to residents in the house and externally are varied and meet residents needs and demand and are within agreed budgets.
Incident Management & Learning
· I will manage and review all incidents and severe untoward incidents that occur at the crisis house ensuring that learning is adopted and shared as needed with AWP and the commissioners. I will support joint investigations with AWP where relevant following the Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF).
Essential skills and experience required:
· Recognised housing related qualification or equivalent relevant housing experience
· Experience in a comparable role of management, preferably in housing, social services, residential care or supported housing.
· Experience and knowledge of enhanced housing benefit, housing management, related legislation, letting procedures and Local Authority guidelines
· Ability to identify support goals and evaluate progress.
· Knowledge of risk assessments and ability to identify potential risks and how to manage risks.
· Understanding of housing management, law, policy and best practice
· Ability to motivate people and achieve positive outcomes
· Ability to communicate effectively at different levels
· Knowledge of housing needs / barriers faced by people who experience mental ill health.
· Excellent communication and literacy skills, able to produce clear, concise reports, correspondence and notes
· Competent in the use of IT systems including Microsoft applications, email and internet.
· Must be able to demonstrate behaviours consistent with the values of the Charity
Who are we?
We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”
It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer. We recognise and support staff networks and support groups for our ethnically diverse and LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.
We aim for our workforce to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve; for those who work for us to feel heard, valued and feel they belong; and for our work to help tackle wider mental health inequalities. We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience of mental illness, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and any other gender identity not expressed here (LGBTQIA+); people who are neurodiverse, have a health condition, or a disability or hidden disability and people from an ethnically diverse background - regardless of your age, religious or spiritual belief, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, political view or socio-economic status.
Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation
We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrates our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation. You can read more about our progress here.
We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Registered Charity
501 - 1000
We’re Rethink Mental Illness and no matter how bad things are, we can help people severely affected by mental illness to improve their lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Residential Care Worker
Location: Worksop, Nottinghamshire
Salary: £31,001.88 to £35,185.80 (includes payment for 2 sleep-ins per week, dependent on experience and based on either our 39-hour or 45-hour contract options)
About Us
For over 110 years, The Caldecott Foundation has been helping children build a future. We provide homes, schools and therapeutic services for children and young people who have experienced trauma, adversity and disrupted relationships.
We focus on creating safe, nurturing and playful environments where young people can develop life skills, grow in confidence, enjoy new opportunities and feel a genuine sense of belonging.
About the Role
As a Residential Care Worker, you will support the learning, emotional, social and behavioural needs of children and young people within both our residential homes and, at times, within our school environment.
You’ll play an important role in everyday life, helping young people feel safe, valued and supported while contributing to care plans, daily routines, and meaningful experiences.
This role includes working a rota and participating in sleep-in duties.
What Kind of Person We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who is compassionate, resilient and committed to helping young people thrive.
You’ll be able to:
- Build trusting, supportive relationships with young people
- Stay calm and grounded in challenging situations
- Work collaboratively within a team and be open to learning
- Support children in education, care and social settings
- Meet the practical demands of the role, including working a rota and participating in sleep-ins
- Drive Foundation vehicles to transport young people to activities and appointments
- Work confidently within a trauma-informed environment
Key Responsibilities
As a Residential Care Worker, you will:
- Support the emotional, social, behavioural and educational needs of children and young people
- Help implement care plans, education plans and individual strategies
- Contribute to a safe, nurturing and supportive home environment
- Support young people in daily routines, activities, learning and social opportunities
- Maintain accurate records and communicate effectively with colleagues and professionals
- Promote young people’s safety, wellbeing and positive development
- Participate in mandatory training, supervision and sleep-in duties
Essential Experience & Qualifications
You will need to have:
- A good standard of education and the ability to produce clear written records
- A willingness to undertake the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (if not already held)
- An interest in supporting children and young people to achieve positive outcomes
- A full driving licence
What We Can Give You
- 28 days’ holiday (including bank holidays), rising to 30 days after 3 years
- Career development, including funded qualifications up to master’s level
- Health cashback scheme (covering you and up to four children)
- Pension scheme with up to 5% employer contributions
- Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to retail, food and entertainment discounts
- Cycle-to-work scheme and will writing service
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. The children and young people we support come from many different backgrounds, and we believe our workforce should reflect and celebrate that diversity. We welcome applications from people of all ages, backgrounds and lived experiences who share our commitment to helping children build brighter futures.
Sound Like a Match?
If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference and help our young people feel safe, supported and hopeful for their futures, we’d love to hear from you.
Please click apply to be redirected to our website.
Please note: The Caldecott Foundation is committed to safeguarding children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check in line with safer recruitment guidelines.
Thank you!
Senior Residential Care Worker
Location: Worksop, Nottinghamshire
Salary: £33,273.24 to £43,797.00 (includes payment for 2 sleep-ins per week, dependent on experience and based on either our 39-hour or 45-hour contract options)
About Us
For over 110 years, The Caldecott Foundation has been helping children build a future. We provide homes, schools and therapeutic services for children and young people who have experienced trauma, adversity and disrupted relationships.
We focus on creating safe, nurturing and playful environments where young people can develop life skills, grow in confidence, enjoy new opportunities and feel a genuine sense of belonging.
About the Role
As a Senior Residential Care Worker, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the home. You’ll lead by example, guide the team, and help ensure high standards of care, safety and support for children and young people.
You will work closely with the Registered Manager and Deputy Registered Manager, contributing to assessments, care planning and the delivery of consistent, high-quality support across the home.
This role includes working a rota and participating in sleep-in duties.
What Kind of Person We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who is confident, compassionate and committed to helping young people feel safe, understood and supported.
You’ll be able to:
- Lead and support colleagues as part of a collaborative team
- Build trusting, positive relationships with young people
- Stay calm, reflective and grounded in challenging situations
- Guide others in trauma-informed practice and child-centred care
- Communicate clearly and contribute to reports, records and assessments
- Meet the practical demands of the role, including working a rota and participating in sleep-ins
- Drive Foundation vehicles to transport young people to activities and appointments
Key Responsibilities
As a Senior Residential Care Worker, you will:
- Support the Registered Manager and Deputies with the day-to-day running of the home
- Lead and guide the staff team to maintain high standards of care and safeguarding
- Contribute to assessments, care planning and reviewing young people’s needs
- Provide consistent support to young people during times of stress or crisis
- Maintain a safe, nurturing and positive home environment
- Ensure young people are informed, involved and supported in planning their lives
- Communicate effectively with families, colleagues and external professionals
Essential Experience & Qualifications
You will need to have:
- A Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent)
- Proven experience working in a children’s residential setting
- Experience leading or supporting groups of children or young people
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- An understanding of trauma and the impact it can have on behaviour
- A commitment to inclusive, child-centred practice
- A full driving licence
What We Can Give You
- 28 days’ holiday (including bank holidays), rising to 30 days after 3 years
- Career development, including funded qualifications up to master’s level
- Health cashback scheme (covering you and up to four children)
- Pension scheme with up to 5% employer contributions
- Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to retail, food and entertainment discounts
- Cycle-to-work scheme and will writing service
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. The children and young people we support come from many different backgrounds, and we believe our workforce should reflect and celebrate that diversity. We welcome applications from people of all ages, backgrounds and lived experiences who share our commitment to helping children build brighter futures.
Sound Like a Match?
If you’re ready to lead by example, support young people through both challenge and achievement, and help create a safe and nurturing home environment, we’d love to hear from you.
Please click apply to be redirected to our website.
Please note: The Caldecott Foundation is committed to safeguarding children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check in line with safer recruitment guidelines.
Thank you!
Job Title: Community Centre Manager (Elderly Residential Care)
Location / Salary / Contract:
Location: Southwark
Salary: £45,000-£49,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent, Full-time (37 hours per week, with some evening and weekend work)
The Opportunity:
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and dynamic Community Centre Manager to lead the operations, programming, and partnership development of a vibrant community space serving both residents and the wider neighbourhood. This is a hands-on role suited to an energetic and organised individual who thrives on community engagement, service excellence, and creating meaningful opportunities for older adults and intergenerational groups. You will play a central role in developing and managing programmes that enhance wellbeing, build community connections, and promote inclusion within an elderly residential care setting.
Key Responsibilities:
• Manage all community centre spaces, ensuring they are well-presented, welcoming, and fully utilised.
• Oversee the programming and scheduling of diverse activities that support organisational goals and community engagement.
• Lead on income generation through effective room hire management and budget oversight.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with voluntary, statutory, and business organisations to enhance programme delivery.
• Supervise and support staff, volunteers, and casual workers to deliver high-quality services and activities.
• Ensure compliance with Health and Safety, Fire Safety, and Safeguarding requirement
The Candidate:
You will be a proactive and empathetic leader with experience managing community facilities or similar public-facing spaces. With excellent organisational, financial, and communication skills, you will have the ability to balance community priorities with commercial needs. You should have a solid understanding of health and safety compliance, staff supervision, and partnership development. A passion for creating inclusive and engaging environments for older people and the wider community is essential.
How to Apply:
If the above role sounds interesting and you feel like you meet the criteria, please apply immediately. Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to close this vacancy prior to the stated closing date.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Location: Loughborough, England (Travel required to all Baca Services locations)
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £24,754 - £28,454 per annum FTE
Working Hours: 37.5 hrs per week (including evening and weekend hours on a rota)
Start date: January 2026
About Us:
Baca is dedicated to providing support and care to 16 to 18 year old unaccompanied asylum seeking children who are newly arrived in the country, helping them rebuild their strength, dignity, and hope for the future. We work closely with social workers and representatives from other agencies to benefit the young people in our care.
Role Overview:
As a Support Worker, you will be a key worker for several young people in Baca's care, providing high-quality holistic and therapeutic support for their transition to adulthood. You will deliver services in line with Baca’s Theory of Change, ensuring the highest quality outcomes in physical and emotional wellbeing, education, employment, training, social engagement, and personal safety.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide high-quality support and care to young people, ensuring their holistic development.
- Work proactively to safeguard young people and resolve any issues that arise.
- Be a role model, offering care and compassion without discrimination.
- Support young people in developing essential life skills and preparing for independent living.
- Engage young people in education, vocational training, and hobbies.
- Foster positive relationships within the community and support social engagement.
- Plan and participate in day trips and annual residential weeks.
- Develop partnerships with social workers, solicitors, teachers, volunteers, and other partners.
- Maintain excellent communication and keep accurate records.
Requirements:
- Alignment with Baca’s values and mission.
- Ability to respond to change and work as part of a diverse team.
- Self-motivated, proactive, and able to take initiative.
- Knowledge of safeguarding practices and issues faced by unaccompanied young people.
- Relevant training or willingness to complete essential training within the first year.
- Experience working with young people, especially in cross-cultural settings.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and ICT skills.
- Driving licence and access to a car.
- Enhanced DBS check required.
Personal Attributes:
- Approachable, reliable, and a strong team worker.
- Supportive, responsible, and personable.
- Flexible and able to work occasional evenings and weekends.
Holidays and benefits:
- 33 days’ holiday a year (pro rata for part-time staff) including bank holidays.
- Pension scheme
- Health & Wellbeing programme
- Free parking
- Casual dress
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young asylum seekers and have the skills and attributes we are looking for, we would love to hear from you.
Please note: You must have the right to work in the UK for this role as Baca is not on the Home Office list.
Registered Charity
21 - 50
It is our mission to serve young people who have been forced to flee their home country – offering safe homes, education, therapeutic care and support
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Job Title: Refuge Worker
Location: Lambeth, London
Salary: £14,236.17 per annum, Inclusive of London Weighting, which may not be applicable depending on your home location and any agreed permanent homeworking arrangement
Contract type: Part Time, Permanent
Hours: 18.5 hours per week (Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays. As part of this role, you will be required to participate in an out-of-hours on call Rota).
We are looking for a Refuge Worker to work within our culturally specific refuge to provide specialist, high-quality support to women and children escaping domestic abuse. Based in Lambeth, London, this role involves delivering practical and emotional support to survivors, ensuring their safety, and helping them rebuild their lives. You will create a safe and welcoming environment in line with Refuge’s values and commitment to ending violence against women and girls.
As a Refuge Worker, you will support women through crisis, providing keywork sessions, safety planning, and advocacy. You will assist with accessing housing, welfare, legal support, and other essential services while maintaining accurate case records. You will also play a vital role in ensuring the effective operation of the refuge, managing referrals, and working collaboratively with partner agencies. The ideal candidate will be a compassionate and resilient individual with strong communication and organisational skills. While experience in the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) sector is beneficial, we also welcome applications from those with transferable skills and a commitment to supporting survivors. Above all, we value individuals who are dedicated to making a difference, thrive in an inclusive environment, and are committed to their own personal development while supporting others.
This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause while developing valuable frontline support and advocacy experience. Refuge offers ongoing training, professional development, and a comprehensive benefits package, ensuring that our staff are valued and supported in their roles. If you are passionate about empowering survivors and want to be part of a dedicated, compassionate organisation, we encourage you to apply.
Closing Date: 09:00am 1 December 2025
Interview Date: 11 and 12 December 2025
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About us
Providence Row believes that no one should have to sleep rough and that everyone should have access to the support they need to find a safe place to call home.
We work with those affected by homelessness and those vulnerably housed in Tower Hamlets, offering an integrated service of housing advice & support, access to substance use, physical & mental health services, as well as, training & progression programmes. We ensure that people often excluded from mainstream services gain the support and opportunities they need to create a safe, healthy and sustainable life.
The ideal candidate
To be considered for this role, you should be able to:
- Navigating the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, working with people who have a higher complexity in substance use and need additional support from multiple services.
- To work in a trauma informed and person centred way, empowering the client to make informed choices around their care and support
- Conducting street outreach with partner agencies to identify and locate people on your caseloads, who are sleeping rough.
- Managing a caseload of clients
- Attending partner agency meetings relating to rough sleeping & hotspots in the borough.
- Providing targeted harm reduction advice and information to individuals around the risks associated with drug or alcohol use and supporting people to improve their health and wellbeing.
- Signposting individuals to other support services inclusive of substance use, based on individual need.
- Removing the stigma of homelessness and for those who use substances and/or alcohol
- Breaking the barriers of which people experiencing homelessness face, when trying to access needed services
Research shows some people, especially women and marginalised groups, may hesitate to apply unless they match all the criteria. However, we want to assure everyone that we encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of whether they fulfil every point in the job description. Your unique perspective matters to us – please apply with confidence.
Benefits
- 27 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Season ticket loan
- Employee assistance programme
- Access to shopping discounts
- Learning & development opportunities
- Monthly reflective practice
To apply: Please upload your CV with a covering letter detailing how you meet the job specification by 11 December 2025 at 23:30.
Interviews
Please note that we may interview on a rolling basis and therefore encourage early applications.
Providence Row is a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales; company number 07452798 registered charity number 1140192.
Registered Charity
0
We tackle the root causes of homelessness to help people get off, and stay off, the streets.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Stable Family Home Trust is a values-led organisation where people always come first. Our main purpose is to support adults with learning disabilities to develop the skills and confidence that enable them to live their lives as independently as possible; to participate in their local communities and be valued for the extraordinary contribution they make to our society. We run a varied and exciting day services programme from our three sites in Christchurch, Ringwood and Southbourne, and run supported living and residential living services in Southbourne and Ringwood.
We are looking for a modern people leader who will bring fresh thinking and inspire trust across the organisation; a forward -thinking person who will model the standards of behaviour expected from employees and effectively challenge any employee behaviour that falls below these standards. You will be a confident communicator and decision-maker with the ability to respond quickly and effectively to employee issues.
You will be part of the Senior Leadership Team and will have significant involvement in the development of the Trust across all areas, including future workforce development and organisational transformation.
Working closely with the Chief Executive you will be the trusted deputy in their absence, making key decisions relating to all aspects of the organisation’s operations and providing a consistent leadership approach that reflects our organisational values.
To be shortlisted for this role we require an application form to be completed and submitted.
To apply for the role, please click the button to be redirected to our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
We're looking for a organised, proactive and resilient Referral and Operational Development Manager to join our Complex Specialist Services.
£44,000.00 per annum, working 35 hours per week.
Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* Free DBS
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.
The Referral and Operational Development Manager will play a pivotal role in supporting the Managing Director with new business development, coordinating and managing referrals, assessments, tenancies and transitions for our customers with learning disabilities and autism.
The working pattern for this role is:Monday - Friday 9am-5pm
What you'll do:
Referral & Assessment Coordination
* Monitor and respond to referrals from external sources and direct contacts.
* Maintain a current tracking system for referral clarity and produce regular reports.
* Analyse referral data to identify local commissioning needs and growth opportunities.
* Work with managers on person-centered assessments covering care needs, environmental suitability, risk management, and transition planning.
* Complete and submit needs assessments with costings and support package requirements.
* Coordinate the assessment process and internal referral meetings.
* Develop a responsive referral and assessment pathway aligned with best practice.
* Act as the first point of contact for stakeholders ensuring timely and responsive communication.
This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead
About you:
* Strong understanding of the learning disability and autism sector, including CQC regulations.
* Proven ability to build professional relationships with stakeholders.
* Strong understanding of sector
* Ability to manage staff effectively
What you'll bring:
Essential:
* Experience in assessments, referrals, and placement coordination within supported living or health and social care settings.
* Knowledge of brokerage, purchasing systems, and commissioning portals.
* Ability to write reports for the senior management team
* Understanding of residential and supported living service models.
* Familiarity with funding processes and financial negotiations.
* Experience of working with costing models for placement pricing
* Experience of managing staff and services in social care or health
Desirable:
* Knowledge of how local authorities, councils and ICBs commission and agree services.
* Experience with Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and trauma-informed practice.
* Understanding of complex needs, forensic histories, and dual diagnoses.
About us:
Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.
If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.
Please see our website for full Job description
Thank you!
We're looking for a organised, proactive and resilient Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager to join our Complex Specialist Services located at our Head Office in Islington .
£44,000.00 per annum, working 35 hours per week.
Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* Free DBS
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.
The Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager will play a pivotal role in supporting the Managing Director with new business development, coordinating and managing referrals, assessments, tenancies and transitions for our customers with learning disabilities and autism.
The working pattern for this role is:Monday - Friday 9am-5pm
What you'll do:
Referral & Assessment Coordination
* Monitor and respond to referrals from external sources and direct contacts.
* Maintain a current tracking system for referral clarity and produce regular reports.
* Analyse referral data to identify local commissioning needs and growth opportunities.
* Work with managers on person-centered assessments covering care needs, environmental suitability, risk management, and transition planning.
* Complete and submit needs assessments with costings and support package requirements.
* Coordinate the assessment process and internal referral meetings.
* Develop a responsive referral and assessment pathway aligned with best practice.
* Act as the first point of contact for stakeholders ensuring timely and responsive communication.
This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead
About you:
* Strong understanding of the learning disability and autism sector, including CQC regulations.
* Proven ability to build professional relationships with stakeholders.
* Strong understanding of sector
* Ability to manage staff effectively
What you'll bring:
Essential:
* Experience in assessments, referrals, and placement coordination within supported living or health and social care settings.
* Knowledge of brokerage, purchasing systems, and commissioning portals.
* Ability to write reports for the senior management team
* Understanding of residential and supported living service models.
* Familiarity with funding processes and financial negotiations.
* Experience of working with costing models for placement pricing
* Experience of managing staff and services in social care or health
Desirable:
* Knowledge of how local authorities, councils and ICBs commission and agree services.
* Experience with Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and trauma-informed practice.
* Understanding of complex needs, forensic histories, and dual diagnoses.
About us:
Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.
If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.
Please see our website for full Job description
Thank you!
37.5 hours per week / permanent / working Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm with the requirement of working one late shift per week, one shift at the weekend per month and be part of an out of hours‘on-call rota’
At YMCA DownsLink Group,is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.
Our values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.
We are searching for a motivational and resilient leader who thrives on developing others, championing best practice, and nurturing a collaborative and compassionate culture. You will bring a trauma-informed and psychologically informed approach to both your team and the young people we support, ensuring everyone feels understood, safe, and empowered. If you are energised by leading teams, shaping services, and supporting staff to deliver exceptional, person-centred support - even in challenging moments - this could be the role for you.
As Deputy Supported Housing Manager, you will play a central role in our- supported accommodation for young people aged 16–25 who are at risk of homelessness. Our services operate 24/7 to provide a safe, stable home where young people can feel understood, encouraged and supported.
Across our East Sussex sites, we work with around 50 young people, each with their own story, strengths, challenges and ambitions. Support Workers hold individual caseloads and meet regularly with residents to build support plans, celebrate progress, and set meaningful goals for the future. Your leadership will help create the environment where this work thrives - one where young people feel empowered and staff feel confident and supported.
In delivering the role, you will work closely with the Supported Housing Manager, while supporting the wider team to deliver consistent, compassionate support. You will be responsible for:
Service Provision: Supporting the Supported Housing Manager with the daily operations of the services so that they meet the requirements of the service specification including compliance with the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) and Ofsted regulations. Oversee the residents’ referral, interview and induction processes for all beds and ensure the Occupancy Agreements and House Rules are fully understood. Ensure the quality of accommodation that is provided, liaising with the Housing and Property Services team to complete estate inspections and health and safety risk assessments, and to turn around voids and organise repairs in line with organisational targets and statutory obligations. With the Supported Housing Manager ensure effective income collection for all beds, working closely with the Rents team to create a rent payment culture.
Leadership and People Management: Directly line manage team members, ensuring their service delivery, working culture and personal development mirror best practice. Ensuring the team is adequately trained and empowered to work effectively and creatively with our young people to enable them to achieve their aspirations and ambitions, whilst ensuring they are supported within safe and consistent boundaries.
General: Be a member of the out of hours ‘on call’ rota to provide out of hours management support to projects in the wider locality. Reflect Psychologically Informed Environments (PIEs), Trauma Informed approaches and restorative practices.
About You – If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your skills and experiences may be more transferable than you think, and you could be exactly the person we’re looking for.
You will bring experience of working in supported housing or similar services for young people and/or adults at risk, alongside experience in managing or supervising a team. You will have a strong understanding of the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) and Ofsted frameworks, as well as a solid grounding in Trauma-Informed Care and Psychologically Informed Environments.
You will be an effective communicator with confident facilitation skills, able to navigate challenging situations with calmness and clarity. You will also have experience of overseeing safeguarding procedures within residential settings, and a clear understanding of how to maintain professional boundaries while building trusting, supportive relationships.
CLOSING DATE: Sunday 7 December 2025 at midnight, interviews to be held on Wednesday 17 December.
TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.
We are not able to support a work permit or offer a visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.
An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment.
Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.
YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists) check, along with a reference and background check carried out by a third-party service provider.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
Our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be.
